Funds from Jboost help outfit kids for camp

Camp JORI, a co-ed overnight summer camp in Wakefield, R.I. for children ages 7-15, has offered children the opportunity to have a Jewish camp experience for more than a century. But this summer some campers got an extra “boost.” Although scholarships are awarded, many families still can’t afford the basic supplies needed for a successful camp experience. 

This is where Jboost came in to help. Jboost.org, born out of the Living on the Edge initiative and powered by the Jewish Alliance, is the crowdfunding website that supports local projects to improve the lives of those in need throughout Greater Rhode Island’s Jewish community. Any 501(c)(3) nonprofit with a fundraising goal between $500 and $5000 that raises the welfare of the Rhode Island Jewish community by providing safety net support, promoting self-sufficiency and increasing access to Jewish life can post projects to Jboost.org. Camp JORI wanted to raise $750 to “Fill-a-Trunk for a Camp JORI Camper.” 

Once the project was posted on Jboost, it was shared on Facebook—which expanded the potential donor base—and then the magic of crowdfunding took over. Donors far and wide made contributions through Jboost to support Camp JORI. (One anonymous donor wrote, “Not from Rhode Island, but loved Jewish Camp—happy to help!”)

A nominal donation of $5 to $10 supplied items like flip flops, insect repellent or water shoes, while donations of $18 to $25 funded towels, sneakers and more. Regardless of the amount, every dollar raised went directly to help a camper in need. 

“Some campers needed just a few items, while others needed significantly more,” said Ronni Saltzman Guttin, director of Camp JORI. “From big things like bedding, clothing and towels to the incidentals like flip flops and toiletries—Jboost donors helped us fill the need by filling the trunks. We are very thankful for this opportunity.”

Through the generosity of more than 20 online funders, Camp JORI discreetly provided campers items they weren’t able to supply themselves. “Our staff is trained to take note of those campers who lack essential items,” said Rachel Mersky Woda, assistant director. “We then supply them with the items they need while avoiding any embarrassment or unwanted attention.”

“Seeing Camp JORI succeed in providing the needed supplies for its campers through Jboost was awesome,” said Alex Gaines, J-boost coordinator. “It’s cool to think how this new platform has already begun engaging the community and helped those campers better enjoy their summer.”

Jboost is always looking for new projects to feature in order to fund creative and diverse community needs. For more information on Jboost or to submit a project, visit Jboost.org or contact Alex Gaines at 401-421-4111, ext. 150 or againes@jewishallianceri.org.

KARA MARZIALI is the director of communications for the Jewish Alliance.